Episode 159: Visiting Switzerland? Discover 3 Off-The-Beaten Path Swiss Towns That Only The Locals Know About

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If you’re working on your Switzerland itinerary and want to go beyond the usual tourist stops, this episode is for you! I’m sharing three destinations I recently visited that completely charmed me, each one offering something a little different, a little quieter, and a lot more local.

First up is Savognin, a peaceful alpine village in Parc Ela that’s close to the Landwasser Viaduct, a must-see if you love scenic train views or hiking. It’s a great place to slow down and enjoy nature.

Next, I take you to Lenk Switzerland in the Bernese Oberland. It’s one of those Swiss ski towns that’s perfect for families, with wide open spaces and a relaxed vibe. I stayed at the beautiful Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort and can’t wait to tell you all about it.

And finally, we head to Winterthur, just a short train ride from Zürich. It’s full of culture, cozy cafes, and some amazing Switzerland museums. I stayed at the lovely Park Hotel Winterthur, which I highly recommend. 

If you’re dreaming of authentic Swiss towns and villages, beautiful landscapes, or relaxing family ski resorts, these spots deserve a place in your Switzerland vacation.

Show Notes

In this episode you’ll learn about:

• Three lesser-known Swiss destinations – Savognin, Lenk, and Winterthur – and what makes each of them unique
• How to reach each destination by car and public transport, with helpful tips on travel times and connections
• The authentic Swiss experiences you can enjoy away from the main tourist hotspots
• Recommendations on places to stay, including detailed reviews of Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort and Park Hotel Winterthur
• Special listener discounts available at selected hotels featured in this episode
• Why these destinations are great options to include in your Switzerland itinerary, either for a day trip or a longer stay

Places and accommodation mentioned in this episode

Savognin

This peaceful mountain village in the Val Surses Savognin Bivio region of Graubünden is surrounded by Parc Ela, Switzerland’s largest nature park.

Savognin is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, mountain biking, and family-friendly activities in summer, and skiing and sledging in winter.

With its relaxed atmosphere and traditional charm, Savognin is ideal for travellers seeking a quieter Swiss escape.

>> AVES Hotel Savognin (previously called JUFA Hotel Savognin) – is a 3-star Superior family-friendly hotel located close to the cable car station in Savognin. There are a variety of room categories available, an on-site restaurant and a play room for children.

The hotel also owns a number of apartments opposite the hotel which are ideal for travellers who prefer to prepare their own meals. I stayed in one of the 1-bedroom apartments in Residenza Grava.

Lenk im Simmental

Located at the end of the beautiful Simmental Valley in the Bernese Oberland, Lenk is surrounded by lush meadows and the striking Wildstrubel massif.

The village is famous for its waterfalls, mountain trails, and thermal baths, making it a perfect year-round destination. Lenk combines authentic Alpine life with a welcoming, family-friendly feel.

>> Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort – this fabulous 5-star Superior hotel offers relaxed but luxurious hospitality.

As well as 83 rooms of various sizes and categories, the hotel features two restaurants (both with Gault Millau points) and a Spa offering a wide range of beauty treatments and massages, two pools and numerous saunas.

An extensive breakfast buffet is included in all room rates. Read my full review of Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort.

Exclusive Holidays to Switzerland offer – quote the promo code FA26HTSWISS when you book direct on the hotel’s website and get 15% off all room categories at Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort. Offer bookable until 5 November 2026 for stays until 19 December 2026.

Winterthur

Switzerland’s sixth-largest city (by population) was once an industrial hub and is now known for its art museums, gardens, and lively Old Town filled with cafés and boutiques.

Thanks to the 10,000 university students who live in the city, Winterthur has a youthful, creative vibe.

The city is just 15 minutes by direct train from Zurich airport, making it a great alternative base from which to explore Zurich and many other towns and attractions in northern Switzerland.

>> Park Hotel Winterthur – ideally located on the edge of Winterthur’s Old Town beside a shady park, 4-star Park Hotel Winterthur is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city.

Various room categories are available, including some that can accommodate four guests, making it an ideal choice for all travellers. A delicious buffet breakfast (included in all room rates) is served in bloom restaurant, where lunch and dinner is also available.

The hotel also features a fitness room with sauna, and there are e-bikes available for guest use. My full review is coming soon!

Exclusive Holidays to Switzerland offer – quote the promo code HTSWISS when you book direct on the hotel’s website and get 15% off all room categories at Park Hotel Winterthur.

Disclosure: My stays at Lenkerhof Gourmet Spa Resort and Park Hotel Winterthur were hosted (complimentary) however this in no way influenced my opinion of the hotels.

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Useful resources

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> You can read a full transcript of this episode here.